Alcatraz Island
San Francisco
Alcatraz Island, located in San Francisco Bay, is famous for its notorious former federal prison, which housed some of America's most infamous criminals. Today, it is a popular tourist destination offering historical insights and stunning views of the bay.
Top 5 Facts
- Alcatraz operated as a federal prison from 1934 to 1963, housing notorious criminals like Al Capone and Robert Stroud, the 'Birdman of Alcatraz'.
- The island was originally a military fortification and later a military prison before becoming a federal penitentiary.
- Alcatraz is known for its infamous escape attempts, with the most famous being the 1962 escape by Frank Morris and the Anglin brothers, which remains unsolved.
- The island is now part of the Golden Gate National Recreation Area and is a designated National Historic Landmark.
- Visitors can explore the prison cells, learn about the island's history through audio tours, and enjoy panoramic views of San Francisco.
Attraction is recommended in